Overview
The fisheries sector in Oman employs ~55,000 (mostly artisanal) workers with an Omanisation rate of ~95%. Workforce development is a critical enabler of Vision 2040 objectives, requiring targeted interventions in skills training, career pathway development, and nationalisation policies tailored to sector-specific needs.
Key Indicators
| Indicator | Current | 2040 Target |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Employment | ~55,000 (mostly artisanal) | See 2040 targets |
| Omanisation Rate | ~95% | See 2040 targets |
| Key Employers | Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, O… | Expanding |
Analysis
Workforce composition in Oman’s fisheries sector reflects both historical development patterns and emerging skill requirements. The current Omanisation rate of ~95% indicates strong progress toward nationalisation targets. Key employers including Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Oman Fisheries Co., Al Jazeera Seafood, Blue Waters are implementing structured training programmes. However, skills gaps persist in technical specialisations, middle management, and digital competencies. The sector must balance rapid Omanisation with maintaining operational excellence and international competitiveness.
Challenges
Skills mismatch between education outputs and sector requirements remains the primary workforce challenge. Overfishing pressure on traditional stocks, limited cold-chain and processing infrastructure, low value addition (70 percent sold fresh/unprocessed), climate change impacts on marine ecosystems, and competition from Asian aquaculture imports. Additionally, retaining Omani talent in the face of competition from government and higher-paying sectors requires innovative compensation and career development frameworks.
Opportunities
Structured apprenticeship programmes, industry-academia partnerships, and TVET alignment with sector needs can accelerate workforce readiness. Aquaculture mega-projects (shrimp, abalone, sea cucumber), fish processing and canning for export, marine biotech research, sustainable fishing certification (MSC), and integration with tourism (sport fishing, seafood gastronomy trails).
Vision 2040 Targets
Raise fisheries GDP share to 3 percent; grow annual production to 600,000 tonnes (including aquaculture); establish 10 aquaculture zones; increase processed fish exports fivefold; maintain 95 percent Omanisation.